📊 Job Summary Table of Postdoctoral Research Associate

🌟 Job Description Summary

King’s College London seeks a talented Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Professor Giovanna Tinetti’s groundbreaking exoplanet atmospheric physics research team. This exciting role focuses on developing atmospheric models for exoplanets and interpreting spectroscopic data from advanced observatories including JWST and future ESA Ariel missions.

🔍 Key Responsibilities

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will undertake diverse and challenging responsibilities that directly contribute to advancing our understanding of exoplanet atmospheres:

• Develop and refine atmospheric models for exoplanets using existing and novel computational approaches
• Analyze spectroscopic data from current observatories like JWST and prepare methodologies for future space telescopes including ESA Ariel
• Create sophisticated data analysis algorithms for observation and interpretation of exoplanet atmospheric spectroscopic data
• Conduct large-scale simulations and cloud/haze microphysics modeling to enhance atmospheric understanding
• Collaborate extensively with Prof. Giovanna Tinetti’s research team and international collaborators
• Supervise and mentor MSc and PhD students in their research projects
• Publish high-impact research in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences
• Modify and extend in-house codes such as Tau-REx and YunMa for specialized exoplanet atmosphere applications

💼 Benefits and Perks

King’s College London offers comprehensive benefits that support both professional growth and personal well-being:

• Competitive salary package ranging from £44,355 to £51,735 per annum, including London Weighting Allowance
• Flexible working arrangements to help balance professional and personal commitments
• Comprehensive parental leave policies including adoption, surrogacy, and shared leave options
• Parenting and Carers Fund plus Carer’s Career Development Fund for additional support
• Professional development opportunities through training programs and conferences
• Access to world-class research facilities and cutting-edge laboratory equipment
• Diverse and inclusive work environment with staff from over 45 countries
• Central London location at the prestigious Strand Campus
• Fixed-term contract until 30 July 2027 with potential for extension

🏢 Company Overview

King’s College London stands as one of the world’s leading research universities, with the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences (NMES) comprising highly-rated departments in Chemistry, Engineering, Informatics, Mathematics, and Physics. The Physics Department has a distinguished history dating back to the College’s foundation in 1829 and currently undergoes significant expansion with substantial investment in new appointments, research infrastructure, and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.

The university maintains its position at the forefront of scientific discovery, offering comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs while conducting groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges. Located in the heart of London, King’s College provides unparalleled access to academic networks, industry partnerships, and cultural opportunities.

🌍 Company Culture

The Postdoctoral Research Associate position offers immersion in a vibrant, international academic environment that celebrates diversity and collaboration. King’s College London’s Physics Department fosters a culture of scientific excellence where innovative thinking and interdisciplinary approaches are highly valued. The department’s commitment to supporting staff through comprehensive diversity and inclusion networks creates an atmosphere where researchers from all backgrounds can thrive.

The collaborative nature of exoplanet research means the Postdoctoral Research Associate will work alongside experts from various disciplines, contributing to a dynamic intellectual community. Regular seminars, workshops, and international collaborations provide continuous learning opportunities and professional networking.

📈 Career Growth Opportunities

This Postdoctoral Research Associate position provides exceptional career development prospects in the rapidly expanding field of exoplanet science. The role offers direct experience with cutting-edge space missions and access to the most advanced astronomical instruments available. Working with Professor Tinetti’s internationally recognized team provides networking opportunities with leading researchers worldwide.

The position supports career advancement through conference presentations, publication opportunities, and collaboration with prestigious institutions. The experience gained in atmospheric modeling, spectroscopic analysis, and space mission preparation provides excellent preparation for future academic or industry positions in astrophysics, planetary science, or space technology sectors.

🤝 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

King’s College London demonstrates unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every Postdoctoral Research Associate can contribute their unique perspectives and talents. The university actively promotes diversity through comprehensive support networks, flexible working arrangements, and inclusive recruitment practices. This commitment ensures that researchers from all backgrounds feel valued and supported in their professional development.

⚖️ Equal Opportunity Statement

King’s College London is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing fair and equitable treatment for all applicants and employees. The university values diversity and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ensuring that selection processes are based solely on merit and relevant qualifications for the Postdoctoral Research Associate position.

🏠 Remote Work Policy

This Postdoctoral Research Associate position requires on-site presence at the Strand Campus due to the collaborative nature of the research and access to specialized laboratory facilities. While the role is primarily campus-based, King’s College London supports flexible working arrangements where appropriate, allowing staff to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments.

📝 Application Process

The application process for this Postdoctoral Research Associate position follows a structured approach:

1. Submit comprehensive application including detailed CV and supporting statement
2. Demonstrate essential criteria through specific examples and evidence
3. Participate in interview process with research team members and department representatives
4. Provide academic references from supervisors familiar with your research capabilities

⏰ Application Deadline

Applications for this Postdoctoral Research Associate position must be submitted by 12 June 2025. Early applications are encouraged as the selection process may begin before the closing date if suitable candidates are identified.

📧 How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply directly through the King’s College London recruitment portal. Submit your application with a comprehensive CV and detailed supporting statement explaining how you meet both essential and desirable criteria for this Postdoctoral Research Associate position. Contact Professor Giovanna Tinetti at giovanna.tinetti@kcl.ac.uk for additional information about the research program.

📱 Social Media Links

• King’s College London LinkedIn
• KCL Physics Department Twitter
• King’s College London Facebook

❓ Essential and Desirable Criteria

Essential Requirements: – PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or related subject (awarded or near completion) – Effective written and verbal communication skills – Experience working collaboratively in research environments – Commitment to high-quality research standards – Proficiency in structured programming languages, particularly Python – Experience analyzing exoplanet observations including photometric and spectroscopic data – Experience in exoplanet atmospheric modeling and spectral retrieval algorithms

Desirable Qualifications: – Experience in cloud microphysics modeling – Large-scale simulation experience – Familiarity with JWST and Ariel mission experiments – Molecular spectroscopy expertise – Experience using TauREx open-source code

This Postdoctoral Research Associate opportunity represents an exceptional chance to contribute to groundbreaking exoplanet research while developing expertise in atmospheric physics and space science. Join King’s College London’s dynamic research community and help advance our understanding of planetary atmospheres beyond our solar system.

Explore Blog Articles:

1. UK Skilled Worker Visa – Complete Guide
2. Sweden Job Seeker Visa – How to Apply
3. Portugal’s Job Seeker Visa – What You Need to Know
4. Germany EU Blue Card – Benefits and Requirements